Vice President C P Radhakrishnan arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday evening on his maiden visit to Kashmir and is scheduled to attend the convocation ceremony of the University of Kashmir on Thursday.
Officials said the Vice President was received at Srinagar International Airport by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and other dignitaries. He was accorded a ceremonial reception and a guard of honour upon arrival before proceeding to Lok Bhawan for an overnight stay.
Security has been tightened across Srinagar for the Vice President’s two-day visit. He will be the chief guest at the convocation ceremony of the University of Kashmir on Thursday.
Authorities have rolled out extensive security measures, maintaining heightened vigilance particularly around the varsity campus at Hazratbal. A multi-layered security grid has been put in place to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the event.
Additional police and Central Armed Police Forces have been deployed in sensitive areas to maintain strict vigil and prevent any untoward incidents. The Traffic Police has also announced temporary restrictions and diversions on several major routes on February 26 in view of the VVIP visit.
Security has been strengthened in both urban and rural areas of the Valley, with intensified round-the-clock patrolling and enhanced surveillance at key entry and exit points. Over the past few days, security forces, as a preventive measure, carried out several speculative cordon and search operations (CASOs) in parts of Srinagar.
“All necessary arrangements are in place for the University event,” officials said.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the Vice President on his maiden visit to Kashmir, saying students were eager to receive their degrees and medals from him. He noted that this is the Vice President’s first visit to the Valley after assuming office.
The 21st Annual Convocation of the University of Kashmir will be held at the Convocation Complex, Hazratbal, with the Vice President attending as the chief guest. The programme will begin with his arrival and a ceremonial plantation, followed by the academic procession and the formal opening of the convocation by Chancellor and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Officials said degrees for the academic sessions 2023–2025 will be conferred on undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research scholars, while gold medals will be awarded to toppers. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries will address the gathering before the Vice President delivers the convocation address.
